BRIDGEPORT, CT – The campaign trail is heating up once again at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as a new group of charismatic animal candidates vie for the coveted title of Zoo Mayor! Now in its sixth year, this lighthearted election invites guests to cast their votes for their favorite animal ambassador while supporting the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun.
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Each vote helps care for the Zoo’s animals and supports vital programs that inspire visitors to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity. The 2025 race introduces five new contenders with a unique campaign style and plenty of personality:
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​Fiona the Maned Wolf
Graceful, striking, and confident, Fiona the Maned Wolf believes she’s got exactly what it takes to lead the pack. Known for her poise and independence, Fiona’s campaign emphasizes trust, teamwork, and forward thinking. With her signature flair, she’s promising to be “The Mane You Can Trust.” Text 2026ZooMayor2 to 71777 to vote for Fiona the Maned Wolf.

BRIDGEPORT, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce An Evening of Wild Discovery with the return of its most anticipated fundraising event of the year! The Annual Beardsley Gala has been reimagined for 2025 transforming the traditional seated gala into a vibrant, interactive experience that reflects the very heart of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo-exploration, discovery, and connection.​

Hosted on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the beautiful Inn at Longshore in Westport, the Gala has evolved from a traditional seated affair into a vibrant, interactive celebration. With themed animal stations, curated food experiences, signature cocktails, and animal encounters, the evening promises to be a dynamic mix of discovery, connection, and celebration with the goal of supporting the Zoo’s mission in conservation, education, and engagement.

Guests will be invited to explore a series of themed Zoo stations throughout the venue, offering opportunities to meet animals up close, interact with Zoo Educators, learn about conservation programs, and engage with the Zoo in entirely new ways. The night will also feature chef-driven food stations, and live entertainment to keep the energy high from start to finish.

(Bridgeport, CT) – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is delighted to announce the arrival of seven playful Guinea hog piglets to the farmyard family. Proud parents Ethel and Harry Plopper welcomed their piglets on Sunday, August 31st with little ones who are already stealing hearts and giving the Zoo a joyful last gift of summer.
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Guinea hog piglets are known for their quite amazing early development, being born with their eyes open and the ability to move around immediately. Our newest additions are already full of energy and exploring their surroundings with curiosity.

"We are thrilled to welcome these piglets to our Zoo family," said CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, Dr. Jim Wharton. "Guinea hogs are a heritage breed at risk of becoming an endangered domestic species, so we are proud to play a role in ensuring their survival. Watching the piglets grow and interact is a fun experience that we’re excited to share with our visitors."​

The public is invited to visit the farmyard and see the piglets alongside their mother, where their playful antics are sure to charm guests of all ages.​

(BRIDGEPORT, CT) – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce the return of its wildly popular Glow Wild Lantern Festival, kicking off September 25th through December 14th, every Thursday through Sunday evening from 5:30-9:30 p.m. This year, guests can expect all new lanterns and offerings to become part of the glow in the zoo’s illuminating after-hours adventure.

​This year’s lanterns will take guests on a glowing journey through time with prehistoric Dinosaurs and under the sea fun with fish. Over 50 large-scale, lighted sculptures will transform the Zoo’s pathways into a world of wonder. Returning favorites like the breathtaking 100-foot dragon and expanded interactive themed areas offer more glowing moments for guests of all ages.